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Honouring World Day of Social Justice is about all of us. It is a day to promote social justice and raise awareness about worldwide issues like poverty, gender inequality, unemployment, and human rights. That it falls in the heart of Kindness Week seems about right!
Social justice and basic human kindness – what a pair!
Social justice and freedom are deeply connected. If we’re not thinking much about a need for shelter, food, equal pay, or basic human rights…well…it might mean things are going pretty well for us!
On the other hand, if we or our children are going to bed with an empty tummy, social justice might be top-of-mind.
Equity, dignity, basic human dignity — these things are felt most keenly in their absence. If you have been marginalized, you know. You. Know.
At the heart of social justice is one simple reality: human compassion. Human kindness. If I can perspective take (even so very fleetingly) on what it might like to be you? Then, no matter how different you and I are, suddenly all that matters is that all be afforded the same basic rights. If I can feel your suffering, even just a little, perhaps I will lean into searching for restorative action. What follows: action that allows all of us to flourish together.
But how can we make an actual difference?
Tipping the needle of food and housing security seems a daunting task. Gender equality? How is that a thing we’re talking about in the 2000’s? That any Canadian citizen is unsure of their safety in our streets, in our towns, in their jobs? Unthinkable. And here we are.
The happy news? You and I are the change. Every dignifying, inclusive, evolving understanding act we take counts. This Kindness Week, experiment with your own acts of justice. They can be so small: listen to folx with differing points of view. Learn something new about a demographic or people group you are unfamiliar with. Hold open a door. Reach out to a loved one. Just be kind, attentive, caring You.
If you’re curious about matters of social justice in Canada, start exploring your local charities. You wouldn’t believe how many thousands of Canadians are working toward a more inclusive, safe, and nourished world right in your own back yard!
We’re in this together
As long as you are doing your part, and I mine? Issues like housing insecurity, food insecurity can be a thing of the past. If we are evolving our understanding of points of view and quick to share what we have? Then it won’t be long until being Canadian will be synonymous with equity, equality, safety, and provision.
